Authorities from the International Federation of Associated Football (FIFA), the National Association of Professional Football (ANFP) and local authorities assessed the progress of the improvement works at the El Teniente Stadium, promoted by Codelco to host the U-20 World Cup. During an official visit, the modifications in progress were reviewed to comply with regulations and guarantee the best experience for both athletes and the public.

The remodeling of the sports complex is also part of the activities to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the El Teniente mine, a date that reinforces the company's commitment to the region. Through these improvements, the company seeks to leave a lasting legacy in the region's main sports center while promoting a better quality of life for local communities.

Progress according to schedule

During the day, progress was observed on the main pitch, where the old grass has already been removed and work is being carried out in accordance with FIFA regulations, including the application of herbicide, removal of the surface layer, laser levelling, sowing, fertilisation and other technical processes.

“I had very positive news about what is happening in Rancagua and this visit confirms it. For us, fluid collaboration between political authorities is essential and that is what is happening here. For us, it is a guarantee that there is an important legacy for the city,” explained the FIFA director.

Compliance with tournament requirements
Codelco División El Teniente began a strict schedule of works in December 2024 that will continue in the coming months to meet the deadlines for the U-20 World Cup. In addition to the modifications to the field, the installation of LED lighting and LED screens and infrastructural renovations in the locker rooms, the mixed zone and key sectors of the venue stand out.

Felipe De Pablo, director of the ANFP U20 Tournament, said that "we want to thank Codelco for its willingness and for obtaining the resources. The presentation they made to the FIFA representatives was very solid, and today we see that the works are progressing as promised, meeting the agreed deadlines and commitments."

Guillermo Devia, Superintendent of Logistics Operations at Codelco El Teniente Division, said that "this visit is special because we received the third representative from FIFA. The positive thing is that we see the joint work between the public and private sectors, generating social value and benefiting the communities. We are on schedule and we hope to finish in July, two months before the championship."

Intersectoral commitment
The event also allowed us to see the joint effort between the Regional Government, the Presidential Delegation, the Municipality of Rancagua, Codelco División El Teniente and a series of public-private actors. This collaboration seeks to ensure that not only the El Teniente Stadium, but also the municipal training fields and public spaces are in optimal conditions to receive athletes and visitors.

Raimundo Agliati, mayor of Rancagua, praised the joint work between the institutions and highlighted the city's commitment to the event. "Rancagua is demonstrating its leadership in the organization of this important sporting event. This is an effort by everyone, and we are working so that in October Rancagua shines as the host of the U-20 World Cup," he commented.

Meanwhile, Macarena Chandía, Seremi of Sports in O'Higgins, highlighted the clarity of the deadlines and Codelco's commitment to the project. "The work we are doing together with El Teniente and the municipality reflects a commitment to the success of the event. This is a joint effort to ensure that the region and the country are up to the task of this important championship," said Chandía.